Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today condemned the conviction by Belarus of
Ales Byalyatski, a long-time human rights defender and head of the human rights
organization Vyasna.

“Canada unequivocally condemns the conviction of Ales Byalyatski and
considers this verdict to be politically motivated,” said Baird. “This trial has
not met any reasonable standard of due process. The verdict reconfirms our view
that the current Belarusian government continues to completely disregard its
international commitments to human rights and fundamental freedoms.

“Canada yet again urges Belarus to release all political prisoners and drop
all charges against them.

“Canada remains a vigorous defender of freedom, democracy, human rights and
the rule of law and will continue to work with other international partners and
organizations to ensure that the people of Belarus can exercise their
fundamental rights.”

Mr. Byalyatski was sentenced to serve four and a half years in a
high-security penal colony and to have his property confiscated on the charge of
tax evasion.